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binding

n.
US //ˈbaɪndɪŋ// UK //bˈaɪndɪŋ// bind·ing
  1. 1 book cover (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the outside part of a book that holds the pages together.

    the cover and spine of a book, including the materials used to fasten the pages together.

    Example

    The old book had a beautiful leather binding with gold letters.

    Example

    The library's rare manuscript collection requires climate-controlled storage because the original vellum bindings are extremely sensitive to humidity.

  2. 2 chemical connection (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    the way that two or more molecules or substances stick together.

    the process or result of molecules or atoms forming a chemical bond or attraction.

    Example

    The medicine works by preventing the virus from binding to healthy cells.

    Example

    Researchers are investigating the binding affinity of the new compound to ensure it targets the specific protein without affecting surrounding tissue.

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  1. 3 programming link (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    a connection between a name and a specific piece of data or a function in a computer program.

    the association of an identifier with a value, or the mapping of one programming language's API to another.

    Example

    The developer created a Python binding for the original C++ library.

    Example

    Late binding allows the program to decide which method to call at runtime rather than during the initial compilation phase.

  2. 4 clothing edge (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical

    a strip of fabric used to cover and finish the raw edges of a piece of clothing.

    a narrow strip of fabric used as a finish for a seam or hem to prevent fraying.

    Example

    She chose a bright red binding for the edges of the handmade quilt.

    Example

    The tailor applied a bias binding to the armholes of the silk waistcoat to provide a clean, professional finish without adding bulk.

Origin

From Middle English byndynge; equivalent to bind + -ing.

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